Sony begins Android 4.3 rollout for Xperia Z1 and Z Ultra
Sony’s just announced an upgrade to Android 4.3 (Jelly Bean) for the Xperia Z1 and Xperia Z Ultra, and it’s tacking on some of its own enhancements along with the standard performance tweaks. The super-sized Xperia Z Ultra, for one, will now include the Smart Social Camera suite for sharing media across social networks, utilizing image-recognition technology and adding AR effects, among other things. For Z Ultra users who’ve been envying the Z1′s photo-focused feature set, this should be a welcome addition — though, of course, a software update can’t magically upgrade that 8-megapixel shooter to a 20.7MP cam.
The update also adds improved versions of Sony’s native apps, including Messaging, MyXperia and Smart Connect, along with the company’s media apps such as Walkman. The rollout has just begun, so keep an eye out; according to Sony, other Xperia devices should be getting the bump to 4.3 soon.
Filed under: Software, Mobile, Sony
Source: Sony Mobile Blog
Minecraft creeps to PlayStation 3 on December 17th
The extensive console exclusivity period Microsoft enjoyed with Minecaft on Xbox 360 is coming to a close, as the first-person world-building game digs in on PlayStation 3 tomorrow. Like its 360 brethren, Minecraft on PS3 is limited by the console’s minuscule RAM — the procedurally-generated worlds you’ll explore are just a wee bit smaller than what’s possible on a computer.
Of course, PlayStation 3 isn’t the last stop for the Minecraft train: Vita, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One versions are all expected at some point in 2014. It’s unclear whether the PlayStation version of Minecraft will experience the same flood of add-on, PlayStation-specific content as DLC post-launch, but developer Mojang says that, “would be cool!” We can’t help but agree. As far as price is concerned, Mojang and Sony aren’t saying; we’re gonna take a wild guess that it’ll be about the same as on 360, where it’s $20.
Filed under: Gaming, Software, HD, Sony
Source: US PlayStation Blog
‘Breaking Bad’ spin-off ‘Better Call Saul’ will be a Netflix exclusive in Europe and Latin America
Despite its popularity and critical acclaim, Breaking Bad had difficulty finding a broadcaster that respected the show on the other side of the pond. For the final season, however, Netflix began releasing the episodes shortly after their US broadcast, and suddenly people began to take notice. Following that trend, it’ll be the streaming service that has won exclusive broadcast rights to Breaking Bad’s follow-up in Europe and Latin America, rather than a fusty old TV network. Prequel show Better Call Saul will feature the exploits of Walt and Jesse’s lawyer before he got involved with the pair, and we expect it to follow a similar pattern of becoming available the day after its US broadcast — which is expected to begin at some point next year.
Filed under: Home Entertainment, Internet, HD
Source: Netflix UK (Twitter)
Android 4.3 For Sony Xperia Z1 and Xperia Z Ultra Rolling Out Now
Sony has been one of the most vocal smartphone manufacturers since the announcement of Android 4.3 Jelly Bean went live, and while it hasn’t quite followed through with the noise it made with an early release, it is nevertheless bringing Android 4.3 for Sony Xperia Z1 and Xperia Z Ultra out in good time. Sony today made a post on its Sony Mobile blog saying that Android 4.3 is rolling out now to their flagship Z1 and its gargantuan phablet brother, though when you actually receive the update will depend on your region.
Beyond bringing Android 4.3 to the two handsets, some of the features that are rolling out in this update include:
- the Xperia Z Ultra will be receive the Sony Smart Social Camera that the Xperia Z1 came with;
- an update to Sony’s library of proprietary apps;
- more Sony Entertainment Network cloud integration in the WALKMAN, Album and Movies app;
- the launch of Sony’s “unique custom interface experience” called Xperia Themes
It’s a pretty substantive update so we can’t wait to see what Sony has in store for the Android 4.4 update, whenever that drops. If you have either of these devices and you get the update, feel free to let us know and tell us how you’re finding the update.
Source: Sony Mobile Blog via Xperia Blog
Sony Xperia Z1 mini cleared FCC, codenamed as “Amami”
Just a month ago, we ‘accidentally’ saw the upcoming Sony Xperia Z1s on Sony’s website, and since then, we are waiting to hear more about it. However, it seems the mini version of the Xperia Z is around the corner as it cleared the FCC with a new codename – Sony “Amami”. The model number of the device is Sony D5503 – and it features the same Snapdragon 800 and 20 mega-pixel camera as the flagship, so basically it is just the ‘small’ version of the Xperia Z1.
The report also suggests that it will feature Android 4.3 Jelly Bean, instead of KitKat. Sony press conference is on January 6 2014, and that’s just one day before the CES. So, hopefully we will see the Sony Amami or Xperia Z1 Mini then.
Are you looking forward to get your hands on it, tell us about it in the comment box below.
Source: FCC
The post Sony Xperia Z1 mini cleared FCC, codenamed as “Amami” appeared first on AndroidGuys.
PlayStation 4 on top in November next-gen console sales according to NPD
Confirming what we already suspected, sales tracking firm NPD reports that the PlayStation 4 outsold the Xbox One in North America during November. As of latest numbers, the Playstation 4 is in 2.1 million homes compared to the Xbox One’s 2 million — a great start for both consoles and a paltry sales difference. Sony released a statement from SCEA head Jack Tretton, which said, “Demand continues to overwhelm supply, but we’re working hard to get PS4 units into the hands of customers throughout the holiday season.” The full statement is just beyond the break.
Xbox One, meanwhile, was apparently November’s “fastest selling console,” with around 101K sold each day of availability (November 22nd through November 30th). Since the PS4 was available starting on November 15th, and the Xbox One went on sale starting November 22nd, the Xbox One caught up in sales so quickly because of higher demand. Or as NPD puts it, “When looking at sales on an average per-week basis, Xbox One led PS4.” Last month’s Xbox One launch was also Microsoft’s most successful console launch on record, which Microsoft’s assuredly enjoying.
SCEA CEO and president Jack Tretton:
“PlayStation 4 sales in North America and worldwide have been incredibly strong since launch, culminating in PS4 being recognized as the largest console launch in history. In North America alone, more than one million PS4 units were sold in only 24 hours and we’re pleased NPD has reported that PS4 was the top selling next gen platform for both hardware and software in November. We are humbled by the passion and excitement demonstrated by gamers for PS4. Demand continues to overwhelm supply, but we’re working hard to get PS4 units into the hands of customers throughout the holiday season.”
The next game from Braid’s creator supports the Oculus Rift
After indie game darling Braid‘s mass popularity, creator Jonathan Blow didn’t go crazy and buy a Lamborghini or something. He started a game studio instead, to create his next big thing: The Witness. Blow was on-stage at Sony’s big PlayStation 4 announcement event back in February (that was this year!), where he announced The Witness as headed to the PlayStation 4 as a “console exclusive” — a coup for Sony’s PlayStation 4 after Braid initially debuted exclusively on Microsoft’s Xbox 360 in 2008.
Since that announcement, Blow’s been in development mode. The Witness was featured at Sony’s PlayStation 4 review event, as well as trade shows like E3 and Gamescom, but he and his team have otherwise been pretty quiet. A few weeks ago, however, Blow posted a duo of enticing images (one of which is seen above) with the headline, “What could it mean??” The internet answered with the logical response: “Jonathan Blow possibly teasing Oculus [Rift] support for The Witness. This game seems like a perfect fit.” is Reddit’s headline. Surprising no one, The Witness — at least the PC version — will support the Oculus Rift.
“The main work we are doing is not for the Oculus,” Blow told Engadget. “But then, since we are doing 3D it is not that big a step to support the Oculus also, so we are implementing support for it.” In other news, apparently The Witness will support 3D televisions! It’s not clear how the headset will interact with the game in terms of gameplay input, but we’re thrilled enough by the thought of exploring The Witness‘ first-person open-world using the Oculus Rift. And hey, maybe there’ll be a consumer version in sight by the time The Witness launches in 2014!
Filed under: Gaming, Peripherals, Software, HD, Sony
Amazon opens digital PlayStation store in the UK
While Microsoft is slowly ramping up the price of exclusive Xbox One digital games in the UK, PlayStation 4 owners could soon witness the opposite. Following its launch in the US, Amazon has launched the PlayStation Network store on the other side of the Atlantic, letting you buy digital Playstation 3, Playstation 4 and Playstation Vita titles, as well as season passes and DLC, through its website. Although Amazon offered a number of launch promotions in the US, including $5 credit on digital orders, the company isn’t spreading the love to the UK and currently matches Sony’s PSN pricing. However, Sony’s decision to let PlayStation owners shop around for digital titles looks set to increase competition, lowering prices and helping you discover a Knack for finding the best game deals.
Filed under: Gaming, Sony, Amazon
Via: Eurogamer
Source: Amazon UK
Daily Roundup: SteamOS release, holiday gift guide for the geek, Z Ultra Google Play edition and more!
You might say the day is never really done in consumer technology news. Your workday, however, hopefully draws to a close at some point. This is the Daily Roundup on Engadget, a quick peek back at the top headlines for the past 24 hours — all handpicked by the editors here at the site. Click on through the break, and enjoy.
SteamOS available December 13th
Valve announced today that its gaming operating system, SteamOS, will be available to both individuals and hardware manufacturers on December 13th. Click the link for more details.
Holiday gift guide for ultimate geek
Welcome to Engadget’s final holiday gift guide — for the geek who has everything. Here is where you’ll find the perfect present suggestions for every tinkerer and hardcore nerd in your life.
Android Device Manager on Google Play
At last, Android Device Manager has hit the Play store today, making it more convenient than ever to command and control handsets from afar. Follow the link for more info.
Sony Z Ultra Google Play edition hands-on
Engadget’s Brad Molen goes hands-on with the Google Play edition of Sony’s 6.4-inch Xperia Z Ultra. This $650 handset remains identical to the original model, with the exception of a few new camera features, courtesy of Android 4.4 KitKat. Click the link for pics and details.
Sony Z Ultra Google Play edition hands-on
Sony’s gargantuan phone, the 6.4-inch Xperia Z Ultra, is finally getting some quality time in the United States, but not exactly the same way we had envisioned at first. For $650, you can now grab a Google Play edition of the device (in the US, anyway), which is compatible with AT&T’s and T-Mobile’s LTE and HSPA+ networks. Essentially, this means that the unlocked phone features a stock version of Android 4.4, is free of Sony’s software tweaks and carrier bloatware and it’ll (in theory) get updated to the latest and greatest version of Android sooner than most other devices.
Since the Z Ultra (no Xperia branding this time) doesn’t come with Sony’s user experience, this means that it’s missing some features you normally find on flagship Xperia devices, such as the Bravia Engine. You’ll get a stock camera UI, rather than Sony’s proprietary interface, which means you won’t have access to as many manual settings as you’d probably prefer; that said, at least it comes with a standard HDR setting, so its software algorithms may be a little different from Sony’s, and may affect the final image somewhat. Also gone is the native Android gallery that we’ve grown to love or hate over the years, and in its place is the new Google+ Photos app that was introduced in Android 4.4 KitKat and featured on Nexus devices.
Aside from these differences, there isn’t much else to the experience; the look, feel and dimensions of the device are all the same, so if you thought the original Z Ultra was too big (and too expensive) for your tastes, there’s nothing about this new edition that will change your mind. Still, this is the best option for anyone who wants an official stock Android experience on such a large handset (without venturing into loading ROMs, at least), so perhaps a handful of you may be looking at the Z Ultra in a completely new way now. Either way, we’ve got some pictures below for your viewing pleasure.
Filed under: Cellphones, Tablets, Wireless, Mobile, Sony, Google
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